Publications

The national unemployment rate remained at 8.8% in April 2026, interrupting the downward trend observed since 2025. This result responded to proportional increases in both the employment rate and the overall participation rate. Thus, job creation continued to be dynamic, with an annual growth of 3.0%.

Social Security affiliation increased by 232,000 people, and unemployment fell by 36,300. Adjusted for seasonality, it is estimated that employment reached 57,000 contributors, but unemployment grew by 2,300. Significant effects from the extraordinary immigrant regularization process are not yet noticeable.

In this edition of the QLMO, we assess recent labour market developments using the information available through Q1 2026. We review the main aggregate indicators and explore a number of issues related to working conditions, immigration, and youth emancipation.

Where is the construction sector heading? Discover how the revival of civil works and the new dynamics of the rental market are reshaping housing in the country, opening key strategic opportunities amidst demanding commercial and technological challenges.

The Spanish economy continues to grow faster than the euro area, driven by strong employment, services, and domestic demand. However, structural challenges remain in productivity, investment, and housing that must be overcome to achieve real convergence with Europe.

Formal employment showed a moderate improvement in April; however, the persistent decline in employers and registered firms, weak investment, and low regional and sectoral dynamism continue to limit a sustained recovery of Mexico’s labor market.

The debate over the impact of artificial intelligence on the labor market has resurfaced. Despite continued job creation, AI-exposed sectors such as ICT are undergoing adjustments that may reflect post-pandemic normalization and task reallocation rather than technological unemployment.